Iris Wingrove, M.D. at Optimize Neurology, PLLC, Austin TX

This was my third visit to a neurologist in the last 4 months. The first one told me it appeared that I had early onset Parkinson's Disease, but she wanted a DaTScan. The second was exactly the same, and she wanted a DaTscan before treatment too. I was feeling defeated, exhausted, and tossed aside.

I found Dr. Wingrove on the Syn-One provider list at CND Life Science website as I was looking for someone in my area to help me. During my visit, Dr Wingrove even assured me that the biopsy was not necessary for treatment. She took the time to understand the "why" behind why a diagnosis is important to me - I am worried about a genetic component that could affect my children/grandchildren. It was the first time I felt seen and heard as both previous providers refused to perform this punch biopsy, and wanted a DaTscan before treating me.

While her office does not take insurance (and I have two), I was willing to pay out of pocket for quality care. I am beyond thankful I found her office! This disease (that looks like early onset Parkinson's) has been plaguing me for about 15 years. Now, I believe I can get the care I need to help improve my quality of life, which, has been pretty low for the last 2 to 3 years. If it is Parkinson's Disease, I know there is no cure or stopping the disease (yet), but I am hopeful that she and Mariah can help me regain some quality of life.

Mariah is her Nurse Practitioner, and she is equally as kind and empathetic as Dr. Wingrove. Oh! And did I mention that they offer Telehealth visits for those like me who may not live close by. I traveled 4 hours (roundtrip) to her office! Telehealth visits are a huge win for people that live so far away, and/or have mobility issues. Also, their administrative staff is very helpful, caring, and kind. This was one of the best experiences I have had during this unfortunate time.

I hit my lowest points twice health-wise after two hospitalizations with conflicting and confusing diagnoses related to inner ear, migraine and vertigo issues. After many people suggested a neurologist as my next step, doing research and a personal referral, I met with Dr. Wingrove and Optimize Neurology. SHE CHANGED MY LIFE. The time, care, support, knowledge, understanding and direct, immediate plan of action set me on a path to a more fulfilling quality of life. No: I’m not cured from debilitating migraines, but I’m definitely more prepared when the triggers appear. Dr. W, her office staff, and NP, Mariah, are my health support North Stars. They made themselves available via zoom, phone calls and private patient emails when I had a setback. They are caring and confident, direct and supportive - all of the qualities I needed as a patient who was SO scared and in pain. I wish I didn’t need them, but since I do, I’m thankful to have Dr. Wingrove, Mariah and the whole ON team.

Dr Wingrove has been my Neurologist for 3 years. Initially she was recommended to me from a trusted friend when I began to have some odd neurological symptoms. She does not take insurance so I was hesitant. I did a lot of research on doctors and did decide to give her a try. Neurology is complex and my condition is complex.

Most doctors including specialists give you about 15 minutes or less of their time, make quick decisions on testing and recommendations forcing your symptoms into a box. They have you return regularly for quick visits, more tests, and your questions are never fully answered.

Dr Wingrove spent nearly an hour and a half of direct time with me at my first visit gathering a thorough history and exam. She listened intently and took impeccable notes. She wanted to hear my experience. It would have taken a dozen appointments with other specialists going the traditional route to get the information that Dr Wingrove gathers in a single appointment. Follow up appointments are 45 minutes of direct time with her.
Trust me, that time is important.

From experience I wholeheartedly believe that my testing and care was exponentially sped up by choosing her to be my doctor. Which is extremely important when we are talking about your brain. This isn't a bone to mend.

While she herself does not take insurance she does work with your insurance for all testing and treaments. She is incredibly compassionate, considerate of my time and finances, fiercly intelligent, and truly cares for you as an individual. I have never once felt like just a chart or that I have to remind her of my case. She always remembers my details.

She is one of a kind, don't let the insurance aspect lead you somewhere else. She is worth it and your health is worth it.